Nigeria’s Oyo State Launches Massive Health Screening Initiative to Combat Hypertension and Diabetes
The Oyo State Government has launched a groundbreaking initiative to detect and control hypertension and diabetes, a move that is set to benefit over 347,000 residents in the state. The "Project 10 Million: Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers" aims to promote early detection, prevention, and control of cardiometabolic diseases by encouraging individuals to know their vital health metrics.
The project, which will take place over a seven-day period in October 2024, will involve screening tests for blood pressure and blood sugar levels to detect hypertension and diabetes, as well as other measurements to assess heart and metabolic health. According to Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Commissioner for Health, the project is a nationwide initiative that targets 10 million Nigerians across 36 states and the FCT.
"Knowing your numbers empowers you to make informed decisions about your health, and controlling them can prevent complications arising from ignorance or neglect," Ajetunmobi emphasized. "The goal of Project 10 Million is to promote early detection, prevention, and control of cardiometabolic diseases by encouraging individuals to know their vital health metrics."
The screening process is safe, using standard point-of-care testing, and will be conducted by trained healthcare workers who will visit communities and set up temporary screening stations at designated locations across the state. The Commissioner assured that the screening is open to everyone aged 18 and above and is completely free of charge.
Participants will receive their test results and counseling on the spot, with those with abnormal results receiving immediate first contact care or being referred to nearby government-owned health facilities for further evaluation, treatment, and follow-up. Ajetunmobi urged the public to take advantage of the screening, emphasizing that early detection is key to managing hypertension and diabetes effectively.
The project is being carried out in partnership with professional bodies, development agencies, and donors, with the goal of promoting healthy living and improving healthcare outcomes for Nigerians. With its massive scale and focus on community-based screening, the "Project 10 Million" is set to make a significant impact in the fight against two of Nigeria’s most prevalent health challenges.
